Causes and risk factors
Blastomycosis is caused due to the fungus blastomyces dermatidis. This fungi harbor in moist soil and in wood. It is seen commonly in soil of rooting plants. Along with the soil the spores of the fungus contained in the soil spreads into the air. This air when inhaled leads to infection of the lungs. People with weak immune system, young children whose immunity is yet to developed and old people are more prone for developing this infection. Any chronic lung affection is a great risk factor for developing this infection.
Clinical presentation:
Blastomycosis causes lung infection usually pneumonia. From lungs the infection can travel to other parts of the body like bones, joints, skin and central nervous system. The symptoms are seen 3-15 weeks after inhalation of the spores. They can range from mild to severe one. At times the patient remains asymptomatic. An individual can land with complaint of cold and coryza, cough and fever. The cough productive type. Pain in chest, difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath, weightloss and pain in bones or body ache are other associated symptoms seen. It can also lead to some complications like lung tumor and spread of infection to other parts of the body. Affection of skin causes rash formation and nodules. Infection spreading to other parts of the body can lead to osteomyelitis and even meningitis.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done of the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. Cultures of the sputum is diagnostic. Routine blood test and urines test can also be advised. Along with this testing of blood and urine for antigen can help is coming at accurate diagnosis. In severe cases certain other investigations can also be recommended.
Treatment:
In certain mild cases no medical intervention may be needed. The symptoms usually resolve on its own. While the rest of the cases are treated with antifungal medications. Usually oral administration is advised. In severe cases the person is hospitalized and intravenous fluid administration is started. Rest and a well balanced food intake is recommended.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
